Game Input Device Merging Storage and Controller Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional game systems using memory cards can only store and transfer data, but not operate games without a connected controller, limiting their functionality in multiplayer scenarios where data needs to be shared and used across different game apparatuses.
Innovation Solution
A game system comprising multiple game apparatuses and an input device capable of bidirectional communication, allowing data transfer and operation across devices, with features like storage, communication, reception, and transmission control sections to manage game data and operational information, enabling seamless data sharing and usage in gaming processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a memory card is used to store and transfer data between game apparatuses, then data can be carried between devices, but the memory card cannot operate a game by itself and requires a connected controller
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the memory card functionality with controller functionality by integrating a processor and communication section into the input device. This allows the input device to both transfer data and execute games independently, eliminating the need for a separate controller while maintaining data transfer capabilities between game apparatuses.
Solution Approach 2:
The input device is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a data storage medium and as a game-executing device. It includes a processor that can execute game programs, a communication section for data transfer, and storage for saving game data, making it a universal device that replaces both memory cards and controllers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple players bring their data to meet together, then data can be shared between players, but they may not have a controller for performing operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines data storage and game execution functions into a single portable input device. When multiple players meet, each can connect their input device to a game apparatus, and the device automatically transfers and executes games using stored data, eliminating the need for separate controllers for each player.
Solution Approach 2:
The input device has autonomous capabilities to transfer data and execute games without requiring external controller assistance. The processor within the input device can independently read stored game data and execute it, allowing players to self-sufficiently play games with their data even when meeting at different locations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a memory card is used for data storage, then data can be stored and transferred, but the system complexity increases due to separate memory card and controller requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple separate components (memory card, controller, processor) into a single integrated input device. This merging reduces system complexity by eliminating the need for separate memory cards and controllers, while maintaining all necessary functions for data transfer and game execution.
Solution Approach 2:
The input device serves as a universal component that performs multiple functions (data storage, data transfer, game execution) that previously required separate devices. This multi-functionality simplifies the overall system structure by reducing the number of components needed in the game system.
Data Source
AI summary
An input device comprises a first storage section for storing game data, a first communication section for communicating with a game apparatus, a first reception control section for receiving game data from the game apparatus, a first write control section for storing the game data received from the first reception control section into the first storage section, and a first transmission control section for transmitting the game data stored in the first storage section to the game apparatus. The game apparatus comprises a second storage section for storing game data, a second communication section for communicating with the input device, a second transmission control section for transmitting the game data stored in the second storage section, a second reception control section for receiving game data from the input device, and a game process control section for executing a predetermined game process using the game data received by the second reception control section.